Short Answer
Complete Explanation
In the context of John 17, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer, the term “glorify” (from the Greek doxazo) does not refer to the acquisition of praise or fame in a human sense. Instead, it denotes the revelation or manifestation of the inherent nature, character, and presence of God. In this passage, glorification is presented as a reciprocal process between the Father and the Son.
- Manifestation of Character: To glorify means to make the internal attributes of God visible to the world. For Jesus, this is achieved through his obedience to the Father’s will, culminating in the crucifixion.
- The Paradox of the Cross: A central theme in John 17 is that the “hour” of glorification is the hour of suffering. The cross is viewed as the ultimate expression of God’s love and justice, thereby glorifying Him.
- Relational Glory: The text emphasizes a shared glory. Jesus asks the Father to glorify Him with the glory He had before the world began, suggesting a return to a state of recognized divine unity and authority.
History / Background
John 17 is situated within the Gospel of John, which is characterized by a high christology and a focus on the divine identity of Jesus. Historically, the Johannine community emphasized the “Word made flesh,” focusing on how the eternal God entered time. The prayer occurs immediately after the Last Supper and just before the Garden of Gethsemane, serving as a transitional bridge between Jesus’ earthly ministry and his passion. The use of “glory” (doxa) echoes the Old Testament concept of the Shekinah—the visible manifestation of God’s presence in the Tabernacle and Temple—recontextualizing it through the person of Jesus.
Importance and Impact
The interpretation of “glorify” in this chapter has significant impact on Christian soteriology (the study of salvation). By linking glory to the cross, the text shifts the definition of success and power from worldly dominance to sacrificial love. This has influenced centuries of theological thought, shaping how believers perceive suffering and divine purpose. It establishes a model of “downward mobility,” where the highest honor is found in the lowest act of service and obedience.
Why It Matters
For readers and students of the text, understanding this term is crucial for avoiding a superficial reading of the passage. Without this theological nuance, the request to be “glorified” might be mistaken for a request for earthly prestige or power. Instead, it provides a framework for understanding the purpose of Jesus’ mission: to reveal the true nature of God to humanity through an act of ultimate sacrifice.
Common Misconceptions
Glorification means receiving applause or public admiration from people.
In John 17, it refers to the revelation of God’s divine nature and the fulfillment of His redemptive purpose.
The “glory” Jesus seeks is a physical light or a supernatural vision.
While physical manifestations occur elsewhere in the Gospel, the glory in John 17 is primarily tied to the completion of his work and his return to the Father.
FAQ
Does 'glorify' in John 17 mean the same thing as 'praise'?
Not exactly. While 'praise' is a human response to God, 'glorify' in this context refers to God making His own nature and presence known and visible.
Why does Jesus ask to be glorified right before he dies?
Because the act of sacrificial death is seen as the ultimate revelation of God's love and character, which is the essence of His glory.
Who is being glorified in John 17?
Both the Father and the Son; the prayer emphasizes a mutual glorification where the Son reveals the Father, and the Father vindicates the Son.
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